Breaking Free from Imposter Syndrome: How to Own Your Success with Confidence

By Myanah Simmons LPC-A, LCDC-I, PMP

A woman contemplates deeply, illustrating the struggle of imposter syndrome as she reflects on her sense of self-worth amidst achievements.

Have You Ever Felt Like You Don’t Belong?

You’re in the room. You’ve worked hard to get here. You have the skills, the knowledge, the experience—yet, a voice inside you whispers, “You’re not good enough.” Imposter syndrome is real, and for women of color, it can feel even heavier.

Whether it’s the pressure to prove yourself in predominantly white or male spaces, the fear of not living up to expectations, or the feeling that you have to work twice as hard to be seen, imposter syndrome can drain your confidence.

But here’s the truth: You are not an imposter. You are worthy.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is the persistent feeling that you don’t deserve your accomplishments, that you’ll be “found out” as a fraud, or that your success is just luck. It often manifests as:

✅ Constantly doubting your abilities

✅ Over-preparing or overworking to “prove” yourself

✅ Fear of speaking up because you think you’re not “qualified”

✅ Downplaying achievements and brushing off praise

Why Do Women of Color Experience It More?

Society has long underestimated and undervalued women of color. From a lack of representation in leadership roles to the extra scrutiny placed on our performance, it’s no surprise that many of us internalize feelings of inadequacy.

We are often the first in our families, our industries, or our workplaces to break barriers. And when there’s no roadmap, it’s easy to feel like you don’t belong.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

🌟 1. Keep a ‘Receipts’ Folder

Create a folder (digital or physical) with your accomplishments, client testimonials, praise from colleagues, and projects you’ve crushed. When self-doubt creeps in, remind yourself of what you’ve already achieved.

🌟 2. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

You don’t have to follow someone else’s path to be successful. Your journey is uniquely yours, and your pace is valid.

🌟 3. Shift Your Inner Dialogue

Instead of saying, “I don’t belong here,” reframe it as, “I deserve to be here as much as anyone else.” Speak to yourself the way you would uplift a friend.

🌟 4. Own Your Accomplishments

The next time someone compliments your work, don’t deflect. Say “Thank you. I worked really hard on that.” Receiving praise confidently does not make you arrogant—it makes you self-assured.

🌟 5. Find a Support System

Surround yourself with mentors, colleagues, or a community of women who uplift you. When you’re feeling like an imposter, hearing “I’ve been there too” can be game-changing.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve Your Success

You didn’t get here by accident. You didn’t get lucky. You worked, you showed up, you earned it. Imposter syndrome might not disappear overnight, but every time you choose confidence over self-doubt, you reclaim your power.

You belong in every room you step into. Believe that.